It is practically confirmed for this teenager in Boston, but the pressure is already sky-high

James Hagens isn't just trying to make the Boston Bruins roster anymore. He might be forcing the organization's hand.

The 19-year-old spent his offseason in Massachusetts instead of going home, training with Bruins staff to prepare his body for a full NHL schedule.

Hagens added roughly eight pounds since last year, going from 177 to 185, specifically working on absorbing contact from bigger NHL defenders.

Then came the results. Hagens scored twice in a 6-2 win over Buffalo, then scored all four Bruins goals in a 4-3 overtime win two days later.

That's not a subtle step forward. That's a teenager making his name impossible to ignore heading into camp.

Boston already knew Hagens had offensive talent. The real question now is how aggressively the organization wants to use it right away.

He's also already tasted NHL hockey, playing five games with Boston last season and getting a first look at NHL pace and physicality before this summer's transformation.

Why Pastrnak could be the key to a faster timeline

David Pastrnak has taken a real interest in Hagens, sitting beside him in the room and answering every question the rookie brings.

Pastrnak posted 100 points in 77 games last season, and having a superstar like that nearby could smooth Hagens' transition if Boston decides to keep him.

Hagens still wants to play center long-term, even though he lined up exclusively on the wing during his brief stint with Boston last season.

Boston finished 45-27-10 last season, eighth overall, a roster with real playoff ambitions that can't afford to stash a player this ready on the shelf.

The 23-man roster deadline hits September 28, giving Boston two weeks to decide whether Hagens needs more seasoning or whether the smarter move is throwing him straight into the lineup.

Hagens isn't fighting for a bottom-six job anymore. He's making Boston ask how much responsibility a 19-year-old can actually handle right now.

Whichever way Boston goes, the next two weeks of camp will say a lot about how fast this organization is willing to move.

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